Surveillance strengthened at western border over Nipah virus

Dodhara Chandani (Kanchanpur): Authorities have stepped up monitoring at western border checkpoints with India to prevent the spread of the Nipah virus.

Hemraj Joshi, Vector Control Inspector at the Sudurpaschim Health Directorate, said health desks are operating at five border points, including Gauriphanta, Khakaruna, Khalanga, Jhulgahat, and Gaddachauki. Staff have been trained on Nipah virus precautions, and isolation wards from the COVID-19 period are kept ready.

District Health Office Chief Dipendra Singh Rawal said passengers showing symptoms such as fever are being monitored, swabs collected, and sent to the Provincial Public Health Laboratory.

Officials added that preventive measures focus on transmission through bats, pigs, and infected persons.